Hutton experts harness Sovietera technology to help save lives

A Tayside scientific research institute has been part of a project using Soviet-era space technology to save lives in Pakistan.

The James Hutton Institute, alongside Glenrothes-based ADVES Water Ltd and Dunfermline company Bridge Technologies, is working with the National University of Science and Technology in Islamabad to deliver a highquality purification facility for providing clean water.

They are reviving retro technology used for cleaning solar panels on early space missions to help 100,000 people in the country.

Scotland’s International Development Minister Alasdair Allan hailed the programme, saying: “This cutting-edge technology is now being applied by Scottish companies to improve drinking water and sanitation and helping to build sustainable communities in Pakistan.

“We have awarded £50,000 in the last two years to enable the installation of the ECAS water treatment generator, which has the potential to benefit tens of thousands of people, building on the strong links between our two countries.”

Dr Richard Allan from the institute said the work of the Tayside scientists, with help of their colleagues in the Asian country, would be of real benefit to future environmental projects.

He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with industry and our colleagues at the National University of Sciences and Technology to develop innovation that will have a real impact. It’s another great example of the Scottish Government’s Hydro Nation agenda in action.”